Philosophy Minor

Philosophy teaches students how to think strategically and see the big picture, then how to break the big picture down into logical steps and details. The skills students learn in the process can be applied to any field of study or career.

The minor in philosophy allows students to explore the fundamental questions of human existence and to engage in a variety of cross-disciplinary dialogues. A perfect complement to majors in many of the traditional liberal arts disciplines, the philosophy minor is excellent preparation for students considering graduate school or law school.

Mission Statement

The Philosophy Minor provides students a solid understanding of the history and development of the major branches of Western philosophy (metaphysics, epistemology, ethics and logic), as well as the major theories and schools of thought of Western philosophy. As the root discipline of the liberal arts, it also enables students to understand the origins of the other disciplines in the liberal arts, particularly their major courses of study. In keeping with the core principles of Cedar Crest College’s mission, it provides “rigorous academic engagement and scholarship and prepares students to think critically and reason, write, and communicate effectively.” It seeks to nurture in students an appreciation of learning and discovery for its own sake and a true spirit of inquiry. The program also requires students to see the applicability of the subject matter and methodologies of philosophy in contemporary life. Critical thinking skills, reasoning skills, and the skills of reading and writing are emphasized.